Why Aussie singer refuses to show his face

A viral Aussie pop duo were greeted to a hero’s welcome when they returned to Australia, but one of them won’t show his face.

Viral Aussie pop duo Royel Otis were greeted to a hero’s welcome when they returned to Australia after a whirlwind year that has seen them find success around the globe.

Royel Otis, made up of Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic, made a triumphant return to Sydney — their hometown — with a sold-out show at the Hordern Pavilion.

The return comes on the back of a whirlwind tour across the UK, Europe, and the US, followed by a performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, all while dominating charts in several countries.

This year saw a meteoric rise for the duo who were not widely known even in Australia 12 months ago.

Their covers of “Murder on the Dancefloor” and “Linger” — by Sophie Ellis-Bextor and The Cranberries, respectively — introduced a whole new generation to the 1990s classics and have become Gen Z anthems.

Australian guitar-pop duo Royal Otis. Picture: Richard Dobson

There was palpable excitement then when they returned to Sydney and rattled through a 21-song set — which included some of their strongest self-penned tracks like the energetic “Oysters in My Pocket” and the singalong fun of “Fried Rice”.

Despite their lightning-quick ascent to fame, the lads seemed almost shy on stage, as you could barely hear what they were saying in between songs. Guitarist Maddell never shows his face.

Speaking to the Daily Telegraphbefore the gig, he revealed why.

“It makes it easier to pick pictures, I always look okay because you don’t see this f****** crooked nose and fat a** head,” Maddell admitted.

Ensuring it doesn’t hurt his neck, the guitarist said it keeps him most relaxed.

It’s been a big year for the duo and now they’re looking to wind down for Christmas.

“Everyone says time flies when you’re having fun or busy but wow it feels like February was three years ago. Some will call it a break but it’s probably more of a breakdown,” Pavlovic laughed.

Taking home four ARIAS and eight nominations after the release of their debut album in February, the pair are back for their Sydney show this Saturday and are looking forward to Christmas break, followed by making new music.

Originally published as Why Aussie singer refuses to show his face